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Help Build Disaster Resilient Farm Communities

Pamela King

Summary

Fire is one of the most common farm emergencies. But how many farms are well prepared to respond? What would happen if foot and mouth disease were found on a local farm? The impact of emergencies and disasters such as these is felt throughout the community. Do you know what to do to help farm families and communities cope? According to the Institute for Business and Home Safety, about 25% of businesses do not reopen following a major emergency. As educators, you need to understand the potential economic and social impacts of a breach in farm security so that you can help your clients become better prepared and more resilient in the face of the unthinkable.

Emergency preparedness is essential to agricultural risk management education. Being prepared for emergencies or disaster helps farm families effectively manage the financial, production, marketing, legal, and human resource risks associated with their agribusinesses. Many women are concerned about safety for their families and businesses and are a responsive audience for disaster education.

Extension Disaster Education Network (EDEN) and eXtension offer educational tools that you can use to help producers and their families develop agrosecurity farm plans. Attend this session to learn about these tools and how to access them. You will also learn how you can contribute to the development of additional resources.

When disaster strikes your community will you and your clients be prepared?

Details

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